British scientists have found that the drug reduces racist views by targeting the part of the brain that dictates fear. The pill only prevents “implicit racial” views, according to Dr Sylvia Terbeck, experimental psychologist and study leader.

“Implicit racial bias can occur even in people with a sincere belief in equality. Given the key role that such implicit attitudes appear to play in discrimination against other ethnic groups, and the widespread use of propranolol for medical purposes, our findings are also of considerable ethical interest.”

The drug did not prevent other forms of prejudice, including religious or sexual.